Midlothian police stations come under threat again

Just over a year since public access was stopped to three Midlothian police stations, a further review is being carried out into the service.

Police Scotland Chief Constable Sir Stephen House has called for a nationwide study of police station opening hours.

The 2011 money-saving review, which was implemented last year, resulted in the closure of Loanhead, Newbattle and Gorebridge Police Stations to the public. Opening hours at Dalkeith and Bonnyrigg were amended and increased at Penicuik.

The Chief Constable has said it is imperative that the new force make the best use of its resources and provide best value to the public at the same time as facing unprecedented financial challenges.

In recent years there has been a decline in the number of people attending at police stations in favour of contacting the force through the internet, telephone and social media.